A case is practically a requirement for the iPhone 4, given the problems some models have with reception and antennas. A case will improve reception and signal strength for many phones experiencing the problem. This list will help you shop for just the right iPhone 4 case for your needs. (Note: It includes only cases reviewed on this site, not all iPhone cases on the market.)
1. Agent18 ShockBand
image copyright Agent18
The ShockBand is a terrific combination: an iPhone 4 case that provides protection, addresses the antenna problems, and carries a fair price tag. It won't offer the most comprehensive protection, so if you're looking for that keep reading, but it will be the right fit for many users.
2. SGP Ultra Silke R Series
image copyright SGP Corp.
3. A.G. Findings Vandelay
image copyright A.G. Findings Inc.
I'm not convinced of the wisdom of the cell phone belt clip, but that's mostly a fashion concern. The Vandelay offers comprehensive protection and a handful of ways to use the case, making it among the most versatile on this list.
4. Speck PixelSkin HD
image copyright Speck
The PixelSkin and its sibling, the GeoMetric, are basically the same case with different cosmetics on the back. Given that, they really tie for third place. They earn that spot thanks to good protection at a good price.
6. Ballistic HC
image copyright Ballistic
The most heavy duty case on this list. It's not the right case for everyone (too big, pricey), but for those of you working in extreme environments who need extensive protection, the Ballistic is my number 1 recommendation.
7. A.G. Findings Beetle
image copyright A.G. Findings
A solid mid-range case, but it doesn't have enough features to justify its price tag (which is the same as its more full-featured sibling, the Vandelay).
9. Hard Candy Cases BubbleSlider
image copyright Hard Candy Cases
A slightly high price and a case design that makes it hard to get to the iPhone's buttons drop this case down the list.
10. Gumdrop Cases Surf Slider
image copyright GumdropCases.com LLC
A solid slider-style case at a decent price. It's so tightly fitted to the iPhone, though, that its buttons stick on the case sometimes, making it difficult to remove the phone. The prospects of damaging the phone or case when removing it worries me.
11. Apple iPhone 4 Bumper
image copyright Apple Inc.
This case does the same thing as Agent18's ShockBand, but costs $10 more. It feels like price gouging.
